July 11, 2026: France bans muscimol and ibotenic acid

Considering the pharmacological and toxicological effects of muscimol and its precursor ibotenic acid;

Considering the cases of serious poisoning reported to the Centers for Evaluation and Information on Drug Dependence – Addictovigilance (CEIP-A) and Poison Control and Toxicovigilance Centers (CAP-TV) following consumption of these substances, which may require emergency medical attention, the high risk of potentially fatal accidental overdose, and the risk of abuse of these substances; Considering that, in view of these risks and the accessibility of these substances within the national territory, it is necessary, in the interest of public health, to classify them without delay,

Article 1 is
The list mentioned in Article L. 5132-7 of the Public Health Code is established in accordance with the annex to the aforementioned decree of February 22, 1990, subject to the modifications introduced by this decision.

Article 2
The following substances are added to the third part of the annex to the aforementioned decree of February 22, 1990, which establishes the list of psychotropic substances:
Ibotenic acid;
Muscimol.

Article 3
This decision will come into effect 8 days after its publication on the website of the National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products.

Muscimol and ibotenic acid, two substances found in certain mushrooms such as the fly agaric, will be banned from sale, production and use in France from July 11, 2026. This decision follows several serious cases of poisoning, particularly after the consumption of candies containing these substances.

Muscimol and ibotenic acid are substances that act on the brain (known as psychoactive substances). They can alter consciousness, perceptions, behavior, or mood. They are sold in the form of candies, chocolates, e-liquids, resins, and other products.

Their consumption presents serious health risks. These substances can cause neurological or psychiatric disorders: profound drowsiness or coma, or confusion, agitation, hallucinations, delirium, behavioral disturbances, and seizures. Other signs may also appear, such as sometimes severe vomiting, a rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, or an increase in body temperature.

We have received several reports of serious poisoning, particularly after the consumption of candy (gums) or chocolate. Some cases required hospitalization in intensive care.

To limit risks to consumers, we strictly regulate the use of muscimol and ibotenic acid by classifying them as psychotropic substances.

This classification prohibits their production, sale, and use in France.

12. The urgency of the measure is justified by the risks to public health posed by the sale and consumption of products containing muscimol and ibotenic acid, including dried mushrooms. Their consumption may expose consumers to unintended effects, with serious consequences for their health that may require emergency medical management. It should also be stressed that their presence in products presented as foodstuffs is all the more problematic because consumers may be unaware of it and because the presentation of those products is particularly appealing to children.

Lastly, their concentration is generally high.

Accordingly, given that the vast majority of reported cases have required management by a healthcare professional, either in the emergency department or in an intensive care unit, and given the availability of these products in various attractive forms, these substances should classified as psychotropic substances as a matter of urgency in order to prohibit their sale and thereby limit the risk to public health.